Good rules except, IMHO, for this one and that with one caveat. LEARN TO USE IT. Most credible studies show mearly the brandishing of a weapon will stop the attack. I would like to see the study that shows most cops are killed with their own weapons considering the bad guys have no trouble getting weapons.Do not carry a weapon, even for self-defense. Most policemen killed in the line of duty are done so with their own weapon, even though they are trained in their use. If you are assaulted, introducing a weapon will only increase the severity of the attack, and increase the chance of severe injury to yourself. Carrying a weapon also creates the chance of you or someone else being accidentally hurt, for which you would be held responsible.
If you believe you or someone else is in danger of bodily harm, many states have finally realized you have the RIGHT to defend yourself.
Again, the caveat is to learn to use it.
-Paula-
